Studying abroad can be somewhat intimidating, especially for someone (like me) that has traveled very … Read more
Pusan National University
Study abroad in one of South Korea’s most charming cities, the seaside town of Busan, for a culture-rich and community-focused semester. With beautiful beaches and mountains, Busan provides a welcoming base from which to dive into Korean culture while studying at a leading school, Pusan National University (PNU), ranked as one of the top 100 universities in Asia. Here students can choose from global studies, Korean and East Asian studies, and a variety of other courses, while taking advantage of PNU’s inclusive campus. Rated highly by both students and advisors, this budget-friendly program also features an orientation in Seoul, cultural excursions – including an overnight trip to Japan – and included meal plan for a comprehensive semester abroad.
Overview
Choose courses in Korean studies, global studies or East Asian studies at Pusan National University (PNU), one of Asia’s top 100 universities in the 2020 QS World University Rankings
Live in Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city surrounded by the sea and mountains...there’s always something to do whether you like a city scene or the great outdoors!
Dive into student life thanks to PNU’s welcoming campus, plenty of activities and college town feel
Explore more of South Korea during your included TEAN orientation in the capital of Seoul – get to know the city, learn about Korea’s rich history, and have an adventure or two all while getting ready for the semester ahead
Benefit from access to TEAN’s Busan Resident Director for continued support throughout the semester
Program Details
TEAN Orientation
Jump into your new life in South Korea with a TEAN Orientation program in Seoul – the country’s capital as well as its cultural and economic center. You’ll meet your fellow TEAN classmates while discovering some of Seoul’s most interesting sites, Korea’s intriguing culture and the delicious cuisine. At the end of the three days, you’ll travel to Busan for a city tour and to get settled into your new home for the semester.
Housing
PNU’s on-campus dormitories offer all you need in the heart of student life including easy access to a shuttle bus that goes around the campus, a fitness center, laundry room, 24-hour convenience store and cafeteria (your meal plan is even included in the program cost!). Student housing is simple but modern with double room units featuring two twin beds, two desks, shared bathroom. PNU dormitories have separate buildings for male and female students. (Please note that guests of the opposite sex are not allowed to visit.)
TEAN Staff
Our team works with you start to finish through the study abroad process. Our programs staff will help guide you through the application process to go abroad, then upon arrival in South Korea, you will meet our team who will provide assistance during your time in-country. Throughout your semester you will meet with the Busan Resident Coordinator for informal discussions and cultural activities. Our staff is readily available and able to assist you with any academic, social, or cultural questions or issues that you may face during your time abroad.
Meet the TeamUniversity
About Pusan National University
Particularly well known for global studies, Pusan National University (PNU) is one of South Korea’s leading research universities, ranked as one of the Top 15 universities in South Korea and Top 100 universities in Asia, according to the 2020 QS World University Rankings. The public university is located in the coastal city of Busan, fringed by mountains and offering a small college town feel on-campus, complete with its own shuttle bus.
Location
Pusan National University has a traditional campus situated on the edge of the city in Busan’s Yeonje-gu district. Visit the google map link below to see the location.
View MapCourses
Courses
Students can take courses in the following departments: Global Studies, Korean and East Asian Studies, and Korean language. These are the only departments that can guarantee courses are taught in English (with the exception of Korean language). Students enroll in 4–5 courses per semester (3 credits), which usually transfers as 12-15 U.S. semester credits (or 18-22.5 quarter credits). The participant’s home university will determine ultimate credit approval and transfer.
Students will enroll in courses approximately 3 weeks prior to departure and will have the opportunity to make changes during the add/drop period once classes begin.
Courses are available in English in the below disciplines. For detailed instructions on how to find courses and syllabi, please see our course selection instructions.
Course Selection
Discipline |
Subject Area |
Business |
|
Communications & Media |
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Humanities & Social Sciences |
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International Studies |
|
Eligibility
Eligibility
- 2.5 GPA. Students below a 2.5 GPA are encouraged to apply and may be admitted on a case-by-case basis.
- Must be currently enrolled at a two or four-year institution and have completed two semesters at the time of participation.
Events & Excursion
Events and Excursions
Our local staff arrange various activities during the semester designed to help immerse you in the local culture. These activities are included in your semester program. Examples include:
A Seaside Escape in Tongyeong
Spend a day at the laid-back, port city of Tongyeong on South Korea’s southern coast. From experiencing breathtaking views at the top of Mount Mireuk to the busting traditional Jungang market and more, the day trip is filled with cultural discoveries.
Stepping Back in Time in Suncheon
Two and a half hours away from Busan, Suncheon is a particularly scenic city known for its K-drama film sets, picturesque Suncheon Bay wetland reserve and preserved Naganeupseon Folk Village, a planned commoner village established during the Joseon Dynasty. Make sure you have your camera ready and batteries charged before the journey!
Program Dates
Application Deadlines
TEAN has a rolling admissions process. We recommend submitting your application anytime from June for Spring applications, and from January for Fall applications. Late applications may be considered. Contact TEAN if the application deadline has passed.
Spring Deadline | Oct 1 |
Fall Deadline | April 15 |
PAYMENT DEADLINES
Your signed program contract and full payment for the program are due by the program deadline. Please note we do have options for using financial aid and enrolling in a payment plan if you cannot make full payment by the payment deadline. You can find more information about funding your program here
Spring Payment Deadline | Oct 15 |
Fall Payment Deadline | TBD |
Spring 2023
Arrival Date | Late February |
TEAN Orientation in Seoul | TBD |
Housing Move-In Busan | TBD |
Busan City Tour | TBD |
Classes Begin | TBD |
Program Ends | Late June |
*Arrival date is subject to change if quarantine regulations change.
Fall 2022
Arrive in Seoul (hotel check-in) | Aug 26 |
Seoul City Tour | Aug 27-28 |
Depart for Busan (dorm check-in) | Aug 29 |
Busan City Tour | Aug 30 |
Classes Begin | Sept 1 |
Program Ends | Dec 21 |
Fees & Inclusions
Spring 2023
Tuition, program fees and on-campus housing: $10,950
Fall 2022
Tuition, program fees and on-campus housing: $9,950
What’s Included
- Full tuition (4-5 courses)
- On-campus international student accommodation
- Comprehensive overseas health insurance
- Services of local Resident Coordinator
- Orientation Program in Seoul, accommodations and transportation
- Cultural activities
- All excursions
- Meal plan during the program (14 meals/week)
- University and course selection advice
- Official academic transcripts from host institution
- Credit approval and transfer assistance
- Academic advising
- Help with student visa preparation
- Financial aid transfer planning
- Airport pickup and reception
- Host university orientation
- A truly one of a kind adventure!
What’s Not Included
- International airfare ($1,200)
- Student visa ($100)
- Books ($200)
- Travel insurance ($350)
- National health insurance required by the Korean government (approx. $40/month)
*Numbers are estimated based on previous student experience and budget. Actual amounts will vary depending on student.
Scholarships
We Love Busan

Yeseul Park
Resident Director - Busan
Busan Tip
Seokbulsa Temple
The most unique hike in Busan is to Seokbulsa Temple, which is famous for its large and intricate wall carvings. It’s affectionately nicknamed the “Indiana Jones temple”. It’ll take about two hours one way, but it’s worth every step!

Crystal Giedt
Senior Program Manager
Busan Tip
Film Festival
If you consider yourself a film buff, the Busan International Film Festival (colloquially known as BIFF) is the biggest film event of the year. Held every October, it’s a great chance to check out films from all over the world – often actors and directors are in attendance and hold special Q&As with the audience after the screenings!